9 Ways to Help Small Building Companies Execute Work Safely And On Time

For the thousands of small construction companies in the UK, ensuring projects are completed safely and on time is the source of many sleepless nights. Although you might think it’s all about following health and safety guidelines and being punctual, there’s actually much more to it than meets the eye.

To shed light on the issue, we’ve broken down the reasons why projects can be delayed and some useful strategies to help businesses keep their jobs on track.

What Are the Top Challenges Small Construction Businesses Face?

Skilled Labour Shortages

Although there are an estimated 1.4 million construction workers in the UK, that doesn’t mean there isn’t a skilled labor shortage going on.

With many companies finding themselves understaffed, it’s no surprise that projects are taking longer. But this skills shortage also has an impact on safety – with fewer people on each project, safety practices can be compromised in a bid to save time and complete jobs within the estimated timeframe.

Slow Invoicing and Payments

It’s estimated that around 77,000 construction businesses are in significant financial distress, partly because cash flow is limited. Small businesses often have a problem with cash flow as they don’t always invest in invoicing software. This means that it can be hard to keep track of how much cash is in the business.

Rising Cost of Raw Materials

As the cost of raw materials is rising (with some becoming widely unavailable post-Brexit), this can stop projects from being delivered on time. For example, if companies can’t source the materials they need at the right price, this can cause severe delays.

The Best Ways to Help Small Businesses Carry out Projects More Effectively

Improve Planning

Like many things in life, adequate planning is essential to success. If contractors can properly prepare for different circumstances and have the right measures in place, this can help keep projects on track – even in the face of adversity.

Invest in Training

To ensure projects are completed safely and effectively, it’s important to invest in thorough training. Although it can be tempting to throw new employees in at the deep end, every member of the construction team must be properly trained to handle any type of project.

Use Industry-Leading Equipment

As the saying goes, a bad workman blames his tools. But in some cases, the right equipment can be the difference between a successful project and one that’s delayed.

By using proper industry-leading tools like the Milwaukee M18 battery range, you’ll be able to efficiently carry out all matters of jobs, meaning you’re less likely to experience project delays.

Invest in Invoicing Software

If you’re finding that cash flow is an issue, investing in invoicing software will save you a significant headache. With full visibility of money coming in, you can sleep easy knowing your cash flow is taken care of.

So if you’re struggling with keeping projects on time whilst also ensuring safety, perhaps it’s time to try the above strategies.

Leveraging Technological Advancements

In today’s digital age, technology plays an integral role in all businesses, including construction. Small construction businesses should consider leveraging technology to streamline operations, improve safety, and boost efficiency. Digital tools such as construction management software, mobile applications, and cloud-based solutions can simplify task allocation, enable real-time communication, track project progress, and provide valuable insights.

Besides, advanced technology like drones can be used for site inspection to enhance worker safety. Hence, by embracing technology, small construction companies can overcome some of the obstacles they face, execute work more safely, and deliver on time.

Adopting Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a growing concern in the construction industry. By adopting green construction practices, small building companies can minimize waste, reduce costs, and make their projects more appealing to environmentally-conscious clients.

Sustainable practices may include the use of recycled materials, implementing energy-efficient design, and proper waste management. These methods not only help the environment but also contribute to the timely execution of work and the long-term viability of the business.

Partnering with Reliable Suppliers

Building a strong network of reliable suppliers is crucial for the smooth operation of small construction businesses. Delays in the delivery of raw materials can significantly hamper the progress of projects.

By forging strategic partnerships with reliable suppliers, businesses can ensure a steady supply of materials, reducing the risk of project delays. A good relationship with suppliers may also enable the negotiation of better prices, helping to counteract the rising costs of raw materials.

Prioritizing Safety Measures

Safety is paramount in the construction industry. A safe working environment can prevent accidents, reduce downtime, and improve productivity. Small building companies should invest in appropriate safety gear, conduct regular safety drills, and ensure that all employees are well-versed in safety protocols.

Adhering to safety regulations not only helps in preventing mishaps but also builds a positive reputation for the company, helping in attracting more clients and skilled workers.

Fostering a Positive Work Culture

The importance of a positive work culture in enhancing productivity and retaining skilled labor cannot be overemphasized. Small businesses should focus on creating an environment that encourages teamwork, mutual respect, and continuous learning.

This may include offering competitive salaries, recognizing and rewarding good performance, and providing opportunities for career development. A positive work culture can lead to increased job satisfaction, improved worker retention, and better overall performance of the company.

Final Thoughts

Small construction businesses often face various challenges, such as labor shortages, slow payments, and rising material costs. However, by implementing strategies such as improving planning, investing in training and technology, and fostering a positive work culture, these companies can overcome these obstacles and execute work more effectively.

While each business is unique, and strategies should be tailored to specific needs, these steps can provide a solid foundation for success. By focusing on these areas, small building companies can enhance safety, improve efficiency, and ensure that projects are completed on time, leading to increased client satisfaction and business growth.